Introduction
The Lampe Tahiti Sottsass is a highly recognizable design piece, created in 1981 by the Italian architect and designer Ettore Sottsass. It is a lamp that features a series of brightly colored concentric rings that give the appearance of a tropical Tahitian flower. This article will explore the history, design, and significance of the Lampe Tahiti Sottsass as a bold and colorful statement piece.
History of the Lampe Tahiti Sottsass
The Lampe Tahiti Sottsass was first created in 1981 for Memphis, a design group that was founded by Sottsass himself. Memphis was known for their bold and colorful designs, and the Lampe Tahiti Sottsass was no exception. It quickly became one of their most popular pieces, thanks in part to its striking design and bright colors.
The inspiration for the Lampe Tahiti Sottsass came from a Tahitian flower that Sottsass saw while traveling in Polynesia. He was struck by the beauty of the flower, and wanted to create a design that captured its essence. The end result was a lamp that was both functional and visually appealing.
The Design of the Lampe Tahiti Sottsass
The Lampe Tahiti Sottsass is a table lamp that features an elongated cone-shaped base, with a series of concentric rings that rise up from the base. Each ring is a different color, ranging from bright red to deep blue to vibrant yellow. The rings are spaced apart, creating a sense of depth and dimensionality.
At the top of the lamp is a simple white globe, which emits a soft and diffused light. The lamp is constructed from a combination of plastic and metal, giving it a durable and sturdy feel.
The Significance of the Lampe Tahiti Sottsass
The Lampe Tahiti Sottsass is a significant piece of design history, for several reasons. First and foremost, it is a prime example of the Memphis design movement. Memphis was founded in the 1980s by a group of designers who were rebelling against the minimalism and functionalism of the modernist movement. They favored bold colors, playful shapes, and unexpected combinations of materials.
The Lampe Tahiti Sottsass embodies these values perfectly. It is a lamp that is both playful and functional, with its bright colors and unique shape. It is a piece that stands out, and demands attention.
In addition, the Lampe Tahiti Sottsass has had a lasting influence on design. Its bold and colorful design has been emulated and imitated by many designers over the years. Its legacy can be seen in a wide range of design objects, from furniture to clothing to consumer electronics.